August 24, 2002

New: Click to view Hollie's Reading List for Children

The fall semester has begun. Children are excited about their new classes and teachers. One of the things I like about fall is the emphasis on reading and learning. I have never gotten over the wonder of learning. In fact, when I learn anything, it seems to me that I am loving God with "my mind" (Mark 12:30).

Fall is the time for reading. Students are getting their new books for the semester. Younger children are learning to read or they are advancing in their reading skills. What a thrill teachers have - opening the printed page to someone!

All of us cannot be professional teachers, but we can all be teachers. We can get involved with someone learning to read. Think with me: your children - your nieces/nephews - your grandchildren - teaching in children's Sunday School - working in adult literacy - volunteering in your local elementary school.

The best thing you can do for a child in helping them learn to read is to read to them. When they first learn to read, you can read to them and have them read to you. NO PRESCHOOLER OR EARLY SCHOOL AGE CHILD OUGHT TO GO TO BED WITHOUT BEING READ TO. When do you start? When the child is old enough to sit in your lap and touch the book you are reading.

I have a new granddaughter - Ashlyn Upshaw, three months old. She is coming to see me this weekend and we will begin a ritual that she and her Dad-Dad will continue for many years. I will hold her, read to her and let her touch/pat the book.

Reading to your child will foster in them a love for the printed page. Loving books will be one of the most important motivations in helping a child learn to read. All good readers love books.

Here are some things to do with that special one you are interested in helping to become a good reader: 1) Take them to our public library. Our library has a wonderful children's section. Get them a card. Let them check our books for you to read to them. 2) Take them to your church library if your church has one. There should be some wonderful books about loving God and about His loving us. 3) Use books as gifts for birthdays and other special occasions. 4) Take them to a book store. Browse around even if you do not buy anything.

All books are not equal in value. I have posted some of my favorite childrens books on my web site. Down load my list and add yours to it. Send me your favorites. I would love to see what my readers are reading to the children who are important to them.

If you will teach that special child in your life to love books...love reading, the likelihood is that they will grow to be a good reader. Make time in your own life for reading. Children will learn what is important to you by watching you more than by listening to you. The person who reads well in our society will have the tools necessary for success in any field. Start early. I think I will introduce Ashlyn to "Good Night Moon" by Margaret W. Brown this weekend.